Parts Of A Coat Of Arms

A coat of arms is a unique heraldic design on a shield or escutcheon, and it is used to represent a family, organization, or individual. The visual elements and symbolism of a coat of arms follow specific heraldic rules and conventions. Understanding the different parts and their meanings is crucial to appreciating the rich history and significance of heraldry. Here is an in-depth exploration of the various components that make up a complete coat of arms:

Shield (Escutcheon)

The shield, or escutcheon, is the central and most important element of a coat of arms. It serves as the canvas upon which the heraldic design is displayed. The shape of the shield can vary depending on the region and period but does not alter the armorial bearings it carries.

Divisions of the Shield

The field of the shield can be divided in several ways, each carrying its own significance:

• Party per pale: Divided vertically into two halves.
• Party per fess: Divided horizontally into two halves.
• Party per bend: Divided diagonally from the upper right to the lower left.
• Party per bend sinister: Divided diagonally from the upper left to the lower right.
• Party per cross: Divided into four quarters.
• Party per saltire: Divided diagonally into four parts, resembling an "X".

Tinctures: Colors, Metals, and Furs

Tinctures are the colors, metals, and furs used in heraldry. Each has its own symbolic meaning and must follow specific rules:

• Metals: Gold (Or) and Silver (Argent) are the two metals used. Gold represents generosity and elevation of the mind, while silver symbolizes peace and sincerity.
• Colors: The primary colors include Red (Gules), Blue (Azure), Black (Sable), Green (Vert), and Purple (Purpure). Red signifies courage and martyrdom, blue represents loyalty and truth, black denotes constancy and grief, green symbolizes hope and plenty, and purple stands for royalty and justice.
• Furs: The most common furs are Ermine (white with black spots) and Vair (alternating blue and white bell shapes). Ermine represents dignity, and vair symbolizes earth and water.

Ordinaries

Ordinaries are basic geometrical shapes that appear frequently on shields. They are among the oldest and most honorable charges:

• Chief: A broad horizontal stripe across the top of the shield, representing authority and dominion.
• Pale: A vertical stripe down the center of the shield, symbolizing military strength and fortitude.
• Fess: A horizontal stripe across the center of the shield, representing a military belt of honor.
• Bend: A diagonal stripe from the upper right to the lower left, signifying defense or bearing arms.
• Bend Sinister: A diagonal stripe from the upper left to the lower right, often associated with illegitimacy (though not always).
• Cross: A symbol of faith and Christianity, formed by two lines intersecting at right angles.
• Saltire: A diagonal cross, also known as St. Andrew's Cross.
• Chevron: An inverted "V" shape, representing protection and faithful service.

Charges

Charges are the objects, figures, or symbols placed on the shield. These can include animals, plants, objects, or mythical creatures, each carrying specific symbolic meanings:

• Animals: Lions symbolize courage and valor; eagles represent leadership and strength; bears denote strength and ferocity; boars signify bravery.
• Plants: Roses symbolize hope and joy; lilies represent purity and innocence; thistles denote nobility and fortitude.
• Objects: Swords represent justice and military honor; anchors symbolize hope and steadfastness; stars signify nobility and divine guidance.
• Mythical Creatures: Dragons symbolize protection and valor; griffins denote courage and vigilance; unicorns represent purity and grace.

Crest

The crest is an emblem that sits above the helmet in a coat of arms. It is typically a three-dimensional figure, such as an animal, bird, or object, and is often related to the charges on the shield. The crest originated as a way to identify knights in armor during tournaments and battles.

Coronets and Chaplets

Sometimes, the crest emerges from a coronet (a small crown-like circlet) or a chaplet (a wreath of leaves or flowers). These indicate rank or achievement:

• Coronets: Reserved for nobility and royalty, with different designs indicating specific ranks (e.g., ducal coronet, baronial coronet).
• Chaplets: Often made of laurel or oak leaves, symbolizing victory or strength.

Torse (Wreath)

The torse, or wreath, is a twisted roll of fabric placed between the helmet and the crest. It is typically composed of the principal colors of the shield and helps to secure the crest to the helmet.

Helmet

The helmet (helm) is placed above the shield and below the crest. Its style and orientation can indicate the bearer's rank and status. Different types of helmets are associated with various ranks:

• Jousting Helmet: A simple, functional helmet used in tournaments.
• Tilting Helmet: A specialized helmet for jousting, offering greater protection.
• Visored Helmet: A helmet with a movable visor, commonly used by knights and nobles.
• Helm with Grille: A helmet with a grill or bars, often associated with royalty or high-ranking nobility.

The position of the helmet (e.g., facing forward or to the side) and whether the visor is open or closed can also have symbolic meanings.

Mantling (Lambrequin)

The mantling, also known as lambrequin, is a cloth draped from the helmet, flowing down the sides of the shield. It is depicted as tattered or cut, representing the wear and tear of battle. The mantling is typically colored with the primary colors of the shield, often with the metal on the outside and the color on the inside.

Motto

The motto is a phrase or sentence that expresses the bearer's principles, aspirations, or family traditions. It is usually displayed on a scroll below the shield, though sometimes it can be placed above the crest. Mottos are often written in Latin but can be in any language.

Examples of Mottos

• "Dieu et mon droit" (God and my right): The motto of the British monarch.
• "Virtute et armis" (By valor and arms): A common military motto.
• "Semper fidelis" (Always faithful): The motto of the United States Marine Corps.

Supporters

Supporters are figures (usually animals, mythical creatures, or humans) that stand on either side of the shield, holding it up. They are a sign of honor and are typically granted to individuals or families of high rank or distinction.

Types of Supporters

• Animals: Lions, eagles, stags, and bears are common animal supporters.
• Mythical Creatures: Dragons, griffins, and unicorns are often used as supporters to denote bravery and nobility.
• Humans: Knights, soldiers, or allegorical figures can serve as supporters, symbolizing military prowess or virtue.

Compartment

The compartment is a base or ground upon which the shield and supporters stand. It can be a grassy mound, a rocky outcrop, or a symbolic representation of the bearer's territory or achievements.

Significance of the Compartment

The compartment provides context to the coat of arms, rooting it in a specific place or achievement. For example, a compartment might include plants or animals that are native to the bearer's homeland.

Badges and Livery Colors

While not strictly part of the coat of arms, badges and livery colors are associated heraldic symbols that identify members or followers of a particular family or organization.

Badges

Badges are small, simple emblems that are used for identification. They are often derived from elements of the coat of arms.

Livery Colors

Livery colors are the colors used on the uniforms and clothing of servants and retainers. They are typically the primary colors of the shield.

Blazon: The Language of Heraldry

Blazon is the formal language used to describe a coat of arms. It follows specific rules and conventions to ensure accuracy and consistency. A blazon describes the tinctures, divisions, ordinaries, charges, and other elements of the coat of arms in a precise and unambiguous manner.

Example of a Blazon

"Azure, a bend Or between two lions rampant Argent."

This blazon describes a shield with a blue field (Azure), a gold diagonal stripe (a bend Or), and two silver lions standing on their hind legs (two lions rampant Argent).

Cadency Marks

Cadency marks, also known as brisures, are small symbols added to a coat of arms to indicate the order of birth among siblings. These marks are used to distinguish the arms of the eldest son from those of his younger brothers.

Common Cadency Marks

• Label: A horizontal stripe with three pendants, used by the eldest son during his father's lifetime.
• Crescent: Used by the second son.
• Mullet: A five-pointed star, used by the third son.
• Martlet: A bird without feet, used by the fourth son.
• Annulet: A ring, used by the fifth son.
• Fleur-de-lis: A stylized lily, used by the sixth son.
• Rose: Used by the seventh son.
• Thistle: Used by the eighth son.
• Trefoil: A three-leafed clover, used by the ninth son.

Marshalling

Marshalling is the practice of combining two or more coats of arms into a single design. This is often done to represent a marriage or the union of two families.

Methods of Marshalling

• Impaling: Dividing the shield vertically and placing the arms of one spouse on one side and the arms of the other spouse on the other side.
• Quartering: Dividing the shield into four or more sections and placing different coats of arms in each section. This is often used to represent multiple ancestral lines.
• Superimposition: Placing one coat of arms over another, typically to indicate a claim or inheritance.

Significance of Heraldry

Heraldry is more than just a system of visual symbols; it is a reflection of history, culture, and identity. Coats of arms were originally used to identify individuals and families in a largely illiterate society. Over time, they became symbols of honor, achievement, and lineage.

Modern Uses of Heraldry

Today, heraldry continues to be used by individuals, families, organizations, and governments around the world. It serves as a way to preserve history, celebrate identity, and express pride in one's heritage.

Conclusion

Understanding the parts of a coat of arms is essential for appreciating the rich symbolism and history of heraldry. Each element, from the shield and its divisions to the crest, helmet, mantling, motto, supporters, and compartment, contributes to the overall meaning and significance of the design. Whether you are a student of history, a genealogist, or simply someone interested in visual symbols, a knowledge of heraldry can provide valuable insights into the past and present. The language of blazon, the rules of tincture, and the meanings of various charges all come together to create a unique and enduring art form that continues to fascinate and inspire.